‘We’re ladies’ - South Yorkshire charity run a real drag for lads

Barnsley Hospice's Ian Wallace, who is a volunteer driver, and Brian Featherstone in training for the first Fancy Drag Race on Sunday October 7.

MEN in South Yorkshire are out to prove fundraising doesn’t have to be a drag - by dressing up as women in the name of charity.

Clad in frocks, tights and sporting faces of full make-up brave volunteers Ian Wallace and Brian Feathers will show off their feminine sides for a five-mile run around Barnsley town centre.

The exercise is not just an excuse for men to raid their wives’ wardrobes - organisers of Barnsley Hospice’s first ever Fancy Drag Race are aiming to raise as much cash as possible.

With just weeks to go before the big race on Sunday, October 7, the hospice needs more men to sign up to run, walk or strut their way around the route.

Helen Macintosh, organiser of the Fancy Drag Race, said: “The fun sponsored event is for men only. We’ve organised it in response to popular demand from our male supporters, following our annual Midnight Walk which is a women-only event.

“We hope it will be another successful fundraiser to help us meet the £8,000-a-day running costs of Barnsley Hospice.

“Men and boys aged 14 and over are invited to take part and have a laugh. They can walk, jog or run – although we don’t recommend running in high heels!”

The ‘ladies’ will set off from Peel Square, Barnsley, at 10am. There is an after and race party at Chicago Rock.

Participants can dress up as little or as much as they like and those in need of inspiration can visit one of Barnsley Hospice’s charity shops.

n Download a registration form at www.barnsleyhospice.org, email helen.macintosh@barnsley-hospice.org or ring on 01226 32362.